Only at Maggie Walker could a four-day week have this much going on.
Back to School Night is always one of my favorite events because it gives our teachers and families a chance to put names to faces. It was not that long ago that I was an MLWGS parent walking those same hallways, trying to make it to three floors on time and occasionally ending up somewhere I did not intend to be. I remember wanting to meet the teachers I had heard so much about at home. Our student ambassadors helped families find their way, security kept us moving, and our staff did a great job with a very busy evening. I will admit, the hall bells signaling every transition were a lot. The PTSA kept us fed and inspired. Who wouldn’t want to join and help? Our Foundation and Boosters were there too, supporting our students and staff as they always do. And a shout-out to Officer Smith for staying the course with me.
Our teams are working hard, clubs are meeting, and activities are getting underway. I love opening the auditorium doors and seeing Bhangra practice or running into Ms. Conner and her dance team as they work to get practice dates on the calendar. Fall Fest and Homecoming will be here before we know it.
We made it into classrooms too. Our ninth graders in MLWGS 101 were finding evidence to support a claim and then presenting and explaining their thinking. Technology and Science were busy behind the scenes working on state grants for student initiatives. Fingers crossed for Mr. Sailer and Mr. Rotche.
Our freshmen signed their Honor Pledges in their namesake shirts. Picture Day came and went, and our department chairs met. Ms. DeGroat, Ms. Cross, and the Foundation brought the Un/Bound museum exhibit to our halls, which is pretty special. We also paused to remember the 25th anniversary of September 11 and, most importantly, the people and families behind that day.
College visits are underway with representatives coming specifically to meet our students. We are also getting ready for two middle school recruitment visits and the opportunity to welcome another group of students and families who want to learn more about Maggie Walker and the Walker Way. All in an abbreviated week.
Enjoy your weekend. Go Dragons!
With Pride,
Dr. Kristin Janssen
Executive Director
Additional messaging below…
Medical Statement for Meal Modification
If your student has special dietary needs that require a modification to their school meals, the school has been asked to collect a completed Medical Statement for Meal Modification form from the student’s parent or guardian. These forms will then be shared with our food services provider.
Our point person for these forms is our School Nurse, Alisa Shapiro. Please submit all completed forms directly to Ms. Shapiro at the school clinic.
When completing the form, please use the following information for Sections A7 and A8:
- Section A7: Nurse Alisa Shapiro
- Section A8: (804) 354-600, ext. 1010
If you have questions about the form or the submission process, please contact Ms. Shapiro at the extension above. Thank you for your assistance in helping us ensure that we can appropriately support students with special dietary needs.
Meal Credit and Financial Assistance Request
MLWGS is committed to ensuring that financial circumstances do not prevent students from fully participating in the educational opportunities and activities available to them.
For the 2026–2027 school year, MLWGS will process applications internally for meal assistance. This is a change from earlier communication. Families who believe they may qualify are encouraged to complete the confidential application linked below.
Please note: Some of our partner school divisions participate in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), which allows students in those divisions to receive meals at no cost. CEP eligibility in a student’s home division does not automatically provide free or reduced-price meals at MLWGS. Because MLWGS operates independently and does not participate in the federal school meals program, families seeking meal assistance at MLWGS must complete the MLWGS Financial Assistance Application.
Eligibility will be determined internally using the information provided by families and applicable federal income eligibility guidelines. Families who qualify will be connected with the appropriate financial support through their home school division.
All information submitted through the application will be handled confidentially and used solely to determine eligibility for assistance.
This application will remain open until September 11. Carryover benefits from last year need to be renewed to avoid a disruption in services.
To apply for financial assistance, please complete the application below:
Meal Credit and Financial Assistance Request
Grades 9-12: Parent/Teacher Conferences:
Also mark your calendar for our two parent/teacher conference sessions during this school year. The first will be on Monday, November 2nd, the second on Thursday, January 21st. Details will be announced closer to each.
Grades 11-12: National Honor Society is now accepting applications!
The fall NHS application for current juniors and seniors is currently open and will close on Monday, September 14th. Eligible students have a 3.5 GPA and must be on-track with verified service hours– see application for all requirements including an essay. Students will be notified of acceptance on Friday, November 18th, dues of $25 will be due on OSP by Friday, September 25th, and the induction ceremony will be held on Tuesday, September 29th at 6:30pm. Note: Students who were pre-admitted last spring do not need to re-apply, but will need to pay dues ($25) and attend the induction ceremony.
MEDICAL FORMS AND ALLERGY PAPERWORK:
Please turn in any paperwork ASAP for your child if they have an allergy, medical condition or if they would like to keep medicines here at school for their use if needed.
Email it to Nurse Shapiro at: [email protected]
You can find forms here:
Also, check forms in powerschool to sign permission for over the counter medication if you want your student to be able to receive certain over the counter medications throughout the year without having to call your first. This mostly includes acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
____________________________________________________________________________
Attention all Powhatan County Students
The Somebody’s Sunshine organization wants Powhatan County students to be aware of available financial assistance for international travel opportunities. The organization provides 2-3 scholarships per year in the amount of $3,000 that can be used to pay for travel costs or personal expenses incurred due to international travel. Applications are accepted year-round. If you are interested in applying for a scholarship or simply want more information regarding this organization, then please use the following link:
____________________________________________________________________________
The 2026 Yearbook Spring Supplement is now available for pickup! This full-color, 32-page insert covers Spring Break, One-Acts, Spring sports, the talent show, and more. Seniors, juniors, sophomores, and staff who purchased a 2026 copy of the Vault should see Mr. White in Room 330 ASAP to get their supplements.
____________________________________________________________________________
Picture Make-ups & Retakes for freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and staff are scheduled for Wed, Nov. 4.
Seniors have a second chance to sign up for Senior Portraits with CADY, on Sept. 22. Go to cady.com/schedule to claim your time slot. This photo session has a minimum fee of $29 and is not intended for Yearbook-only sittings. However, if you order a package from that shoot, you’ll receive a $30 credit. If you miss out on the 9/22 session, don’t worry! CADY will hold a third senior-portraits session at MLWGS later this fall. That will be your only opportunity to sit for the free, Yearbook-only portrait here at MLWGS.
____________________________________________________________________________
Student Fee Payments
Student fee payments are due at this time. Please submit your payment online at https://osp.osmsinc.com/MLWGS/default.aspx. Alternatively, your student may bring cash, check, or money order to the main office (Ms Charity – 9th & 10th grades) or (Ms Rowe – 11th & 12th grades). Student fee statements were mailed home prior to the first day of school. If you need another copy, please email [email protected] (9th/10th) or [email protected] (11th/12th). Student fees are considered delinquent if not paid by September 30th.
____________________________________________________________________________
Mark Your Calendars for the 25th Annual Night of the Dragon–
Saturday, February 20, at the Altria Theater
Mark your calendar now for this highlight of the year for the Dragon family. The entire MLWGS community is invited to celebrate 35 years of Maggie Walker during this special evening featuring performances by beloved alumni musicians, our iconic live and silent auctions, dinner and more. Hosted by the MLWGS Foundation, this is the largest social event of the year with all proceeds benefiting our Dragons and their teachers.
__________________________________________________________________________
This 2026-2027 Parent Participation Competition is Officially Underway!
Help Your Dragon’s Class (and all of MLWGS) Win
The Foundation’s Annual Fund supports the amazing academic and extracurricular experiences that set MLWGS apart, including our award-winning academic clubs and teams, mind-broadening student travel, cutting-edge teacher professional development, vital student aid, and more. The Parent Participation Campaign is a friendly (but fierce, lol) competition that recognizes the class with the highest percentage of parents making annual fund donations each year. Every donation counts. And the winning class gets bragging rights and a sweet treat in May courtesy of the Foundation!
Who will take the early lead this year? 2027? 2028? 2029? 2030? We’ll see. Support your Dragon’s class by making your gift online today.
Join Your MLWGS Parent Teacher Student Organization for 2026-2027!
Click HERE to join your family to the PTSA and donate!
Click HERE for the Volunteer Interest Form
Let’s Go Dragons! We loved meeting so many new families at MLWGS orientation. The Dragon magic is alive and well, and we’re excited for another amazing year!
Join Now! Your family belongs! Our PTSA is 100% inclusive, welcoming everyone who supports our students and school. Membership is for one school year, so it’s time to join for 2026–2027!
All In! We encourage parents/guardians and students to join together. Grandparents, relatives, and alumni are welcome, too! Our community is one of the largest PTAs in Virginia because we all invest in our Dragons.
Support MLWGS & Your Student! Our PTSA relies entirely on family donations. With our work powered by volunteers, every dollar goes toward supporting students and teachers. Suggested family donation: $50.
All Means All! If membership fees or donations are a challenge, please contact a PTSA officer or school counselor. We will make sure your family can join. Everyone belongs! Want to sponsor another family? $31 covers two adults and a student.
Our goal: 1,000 Dragons strong! Let’s Go Dragons!
This is going to be our best year yet! —Dr. Ben Pearson-Nelson, MLWGS PTSA President
Join your family to the PTSA and donate today!
MLWGS PTSA Votes To Support One Percent For Schools
The MLWGS PTSA voted to support a one percent sales tax referendum to help pay for school construction and maintenance. This referendum will be on the ballot for Chesterfield County, the City of Richmond, and Powhatan County. An affirmative vote would guarantee a steady stream of revenue for safe and healthy schools and help clear a large backlog of overdue maintenance. The PTSA urges our school community to support this vital investment in our schools and to highlight the importance of this measure in your locality. Early voting starts Friday, September 18th. Vote yes to give one percent to schools.
Fall Festival
The current Fall Festival coordinator will be passing the torch after this school year, so PTSA is looking for another dedicated individual or individuals to show the way. This event is something very unique to MLWGS. Our kids, families, and community love it. Please reach out to Julie Seitz with both the PTSA and Foundation if you are interested.
VMHC exhibit @ MLWGS – Un/Bound: Free Black Virginians, 1619-1865
Thanks to funding from the Governor’s School Foundation, MLWGS will be hosting a traveling exhibition from the Virginia Museum of History and Culture from September 9 through October 16. Un/Bound: Free Black Virginians, 1619-1865 illuminates an often overlooked layer of our history: the lives and legacy of free Black Virginians. Highlighting stories of individuals, families, and communities from across our state, the exhibit centers on themes of freedom, resistance, and resilience, inviting those who read its panels to reflect on the courage, strength, and determination of people who authored this chapter of our history, on the many fronts in the fight for freedom, and on the meaning of liberty. If you’ll be attending Back to School Night, consider reserving time to visit the exhibit, located on the second floor in the foyer in front of the auditorium.
Transcribe-a-thon Kickoff on Tuesday, September 15 from 3:30-5pm
Do you like history? Need service hours? Participate in the Transcribe-a-thon Kickoff in the library from 3:30-5pm on Tuesday, September 15! Staff from the Library of Virginia will be here to teach us how to transcribe historical documents and update us on their latest digitization projects. Once you’re trained, you qualify to sign an agreement with Ms. DeGroat to join the Transcribe Team – currently over 200 students strong! You can then transcribe on your own from wherever you have an Internet connection. There will be cookies and the good company of classmates to fuel your work. To sign up or to renew your membership for 2026/2027, complete this form. Questions? See Ms. DeGroat in the library.
German Exchange 2027
This past week, students in German classes received a purple information sheet about the 2027 German exchange in order to discuss the opportunity in more detail with parents/guardians. Please have students return this signed paper to Frau Macklin no later than September 18th to indicate your current preferences regarding the exchange. German students will be hosted by MLWGS families from March 13th – 25th, and we will travel to Germany for our return visit from June 8th -24th.
An online interest meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 23rd at 7:00 pm. I am aware of the Field Hockey games that evening and can arrange a separate time to speak to those families and students.
As of September 3, 2026, 78 colleges/universities have scheduled visits to MLWGS for lunchtime presentations! All Dragons in grades 10-12 are invited to attend. Exact locations will be featured on the daily morning announcements and the white dry-erase board outside of the Counseling Office. To preview a list of who is coming to our school*, check out this link, and if you have any questions about College Rep Visits to MLWGS, feel free to contact senior/college counselor Kim Forquer at [email protected]:
*Please note that all appointments are subject to change…and more are likely to be added throughout the fall.
_____________________________________________________________________________
Class of 2027 Parents: Has your senior shown you the newsletter and Transcript/Letter of Recommendation Worksheet that they received from counselors Ms. Forquer and Dr. Loving in English class during the second week of school? Students aiming to meet college application deadlines of December 1 or earlier have a list of related tasks that must be completed by Friday, 9/18. Please review these materials with them ASAP and encourage them to check the “College Information for the Class of 2027” Schoology group daily for reminders, updates, and new opportunities related to college admissions, scholarships, career pathways, and more.
____________________________________________________________________
The MLWGS Homecoming Dance is Saturday, October 10th from 7 to 10pm. Homecoming Dance Tickets are now available on OSP. Tickets are $19 until September 25th. Take advantage of the early bird discount!
Mu Alpha Theta (math honor society) offers free Math Tutoring every Monday and Thursday at lunchtime (11:45-12:15) in Room 201 and every Tuesday and Wednesday after school (3:30-4:30) in Room 202. Students are welcome to just drop in – no appointment is necessary!
___________________________________________________________________________
REMINDER: MECH TECH DRAGONS FALL KICKOFF MEETING!
Our Mandatory Fall Team/Club/Parent/Mentor Meeting is coming up!
Wednesday, September 16, 2026
7:00 PM
Microsoft Teams
All are expected to attend:
- Current Mech Tech Dragons team members
- Prospective/future team members
- Parents and family members
- Mentors
This is an important meeting as we officially kick off the new school year and share important information about the team, upcoming activities, expectations, opportunities, and plans for the season.
Whether you’re a returning team member, considering joining the team, a parent, or a mentor, please make plans to attend!
The 2026–27 season is getting underway, and we want everyone ready to go!
Join the meeting: Microsoft Teams — Fall Kickoff Meeting
Go Mech Tech Dragons!
______________________________________________________________________________
National English Honor Society
Juniors and Seniors, be on the lookout for NEHS applications. Your English teachers will share the link.
NEHS seeks members who have demonstrated exceptional ability and interest in English. This may include appreciation and study of literature, creative writing, media studies, journalism, literary analysis, and/or composition. Members must have and maintain a 3.75 GPA in English. (We run it again your senior year).
*The application window closes Monday, 28 September @ 3:30 PM.
**WE WILL NOT ACCEPT LATE APPLICATIONS.
______________________________________________________________________________
PSAT Day Information
PSAT Day for sophomores and juniors will take place on Friday, October 9th. Families can visit Digital PSAT Information for details on how to prepare for PSAT Day.
_____________________________________________________________________
MLWGS Regional School Board meeting is Thursday, September 17, 2026, at 9 am on campus in Room 153.
